Congratulations! You are now one week closer to meeting your little one. Here’s what to consider this week as you approach the 28-week mark.
What Changes Are Happening in Your Body?
Your uterus continues to expand, and by now, the top of it may be positioned several inches above your belly button, approximately 3 ½ inches (8.9 cm) or more. Expect your weight gain to be between 17 and 24 pounds (7.7 to 10.8 kg). It’s a good idea to discuss any weight-related concerns with your healthcare provider during your next visit. As you enter your third trimester, you might notice a shift in your pregnancy symptoms. Many women start experiencing leg cramps, constipation, insomnia, and hemorrhoids at this stage.
What Size is Your Baby?
Your baby is now nearly 14 ¼ inches (36 cm) long and weighs around 2 ½ pounds (1.13 kg). While this may seem small, remember that your baby will gain a significant amount of weight in the coming weeks.
What’s Happening with Your Baby?
Your baby’s brain is beginning to develop into a more complex organ. Up until now, their brain has appeared relatively smooth, but from this week, it will start forming grooves along its surface. The amount of brain tissue will also begin to increase. Hair growth continues as well, with visible eyebrows and eyelashes, and your baby’s head hair is growing longer. They are also beginning to look rounder as fat deposits develop beneath the skin, an important process that will continue throughout the rest of your pregnancy.
What Should You Plan for This Week?
During your next prenatal appointment, be prepared for the following:
- Administration of Rhogam if you have Rh factor: If Rh antibodies are not found in your blood, you will receive Rhogam at 28 weeks and possibly after childbirth.
- Discussion about fetal movement tracking.
- Instructions on how to calculate kick counts.
- Options for childbirth classes.
- Discussion on breastfeeding versus bottle-feeding.
You are likely to start visiting your healthcare provider every two weeks until you reach 36 weeks. After that, your appointments will be scheduled weekly.
Tips to Enhance Your Pregnancy Experience
While it may feel like labor is still a way off, it’s wise to start planning your journey to the hospital. This preparation can be especially helpful if your baby decides to arrive early. Make sure you have your partner’s contact numbers handy so you can reach them when labor begins. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case your partner is unavailable. Consider planning multiple routes to the birthing location. Some dads find this planning exciting, as they can creatively explore the quickest paths.
Advice for Your Partner
Be involved in decision-making and planning, especially concerning the delivery of your child. Discuss any fears about communication during labor and ways to prevent issues, such as sending a text message to signal that labor has begun. Talk to other parents who have dealt with similar situations to learn what worked for them.
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Summary
At 28 weeks pregnant, you are approaching the final stretch of your pregnancy. Your body is undergoing significant changes, and your baby is developing rapidly. Plan for your upcoming prenatal appointments and involve your partner in preparations for the birth. Consider exploring resources for artificial insemination if relevant. Embrace this exciting time as you prepare to welcome your new bundle of joy!